With only a few days left before I leave for the 2024 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Phoenix, I am reminded of all the shows I have attended in my career. This will be my 30^th year attending this event. I have enjoyed each year and I have learned a lot in the process.

 

I would recommend to make a game plan before you get there so you can schedule the free education you want to see as well as the booths on the trade show floor. The GCSAA Conference app will be helpful to you in creating your schedule. Remember, once you are on the trade show floor you will run into a lot of folks that you know and it will take some time for a quick visit. Plan to do some evening activities with friends or co-workers and have fun, but not too much fun: Too much fun equals a very long day to follow. I would also recommend attending the annual meeting on Thursday. This will give you a great insight into how our association is professionally operated and it might inspire you to become more involved.

 

My last piece of advice is to get to know some of the GCSAA staff while you are there. There are over 80 full-time GCSAA employees that work for our members every day. Our association does so much more than produce a monthly magazine. Go by the GCSAA Services area at the trade show and meet some of the greatest people in our industry and I will bet you just might learn a thing or two about the GCSAA.

I hope to see you in Phoenix.